Description
Boferin Injection 500mg/10ml Price in Pakistan
Product Overview
Boferin Injection 500mg/10ml is a prescription intravenous iron replacement product containing the active ingredient Ferric Carboxymaltose. Manufactured by Bosch Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd. in Pakistan, this advanced iron formulation is a sterile, aqueous, isotonic colloidal solution designed to rapidly and effectively replenish iron stores in patients diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia (IDA). It is primarily prescribed for adult patients who cannot tolerate oral iron supplements, those for whom oral iron therapy has failed, or individuals with a clinical need to deliver iron rapidly. Boferin is administered as a slow intravenous push or infusion by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting, providing a convenient and efficient treatment option that can correct iron deficiency in as little as one or two sessions. Each pack contains 1 vial of 10ml solution.
This advanced intravenous iron therapy delivers rapid and effective correction of iron deficiency anemia:
Rapid Iron Replenishment: Quickly restores depleted iron stores to support hemoglobin formation and red blood cell production.
Effective for Oral Iron Intolerance: Specifically indicated for patients who cannot tolerate oral iron supplements or have had an unsatisfactory response to oral iron therapy.
High Bioavailability: Ferric carboxymaltose is a colloidal iron complex that efficiently delivers iron to the body. Red cell utilisation of iron from Boferin ranged from 91% to 99% in subjects with iron deficiency.
Proven Efficacy in Pakistan: Studies have shown Boferin to be safe for pregnant Pakistani women and effective in raising hemoglobin levels in patients with iron deficiency anemia.
Minimal GI Side Effects: Bypasses the gastrointestinal tract, avoiding the common side effects associated with oral iron supplements.
Prescription Medication: Requires administration by a qualified healthcare professional in a medical setting.
What are the Primary Uses and Key Features of Boferin Injection?
Boferin Injection serves as a specialized therapeutic solution for managing iron deficiency anemia across various patient populations. It is designed to rapidly correct iron deficiency when oral supplements are not suitable or effective.
Core Uses of This Medication
Iron Deficiency Anemia: The primary indication is the treatment of iron deficiency anemia in adult patients. It rapidly replenishes iron stores to help form hemoglobin and improve red blood cell production.
Oral Iron Intolerance: Specifically indicated for patients who cannot tolerate oral iron supplements or have had an unsatisfactory response to oral iron therapy.
Rapid Iron Delivery: Used when there is a clinical need to deliver iron rapidly.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Manages anemia in patients with chronic kidney disease (non-dialysis-dependent patients).
Pregnancy: Studies have shown Boferin to be safe for pregnant Pakistani women and effective in raising hemoglobin levels.
Standout Product Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredient: Ferric Carboxymaltose | An iron carbohydrate complex designed to provide utilisable iron for iron transport and storage proteins (transferrin and ferritin). |
| Strength: 500mg/10ml | Each vial contains 500mg of elemental iron in a 10ml solution. |
| Manufacturer: Bosch Pharmaceuticals | Manufactured by a reputable Pakistani pharmaceutical company. |
| Intravenous Administration | Administered as a slow IV push or infusion by a healthcare professional. |
| Rapid Action | Iron is rapidly cleared from the plasma with a terminal half-life of 7 to 12 hours. |
| Prescription Required | Available only with a prescription from a qualified healthcare professional. |
| Single-Use Vial | Each pack contains 1 vial of 10ml solution. |
What Key Ingredients are in Boferin Injection and How Does It Work?
Composition
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Ferric Carboxymaltose | Each 10mL vial contains 500mg of iron (as ferric carboxymaltose). |
| Other Ingredients | Sterile, aqueous, isotonic colloidal solution for intravenous injection. |
Mechanism of Action
Boferin is a colloidal solution of the iron complex ferric carboxymaltose. The complex is designed to provide, in a controlled way, utilisable iron for the iron transport and storage proteins in the body (transferrin and ferritin, respectively). When administered intravenously, the carboxymaltose complex dissociates, releasing ferric iron (Fe³⁺) that binds to transferrin. This iron is then utilized by the body for the production of hemoglobin in red blood cells.
Key Pharmacokinetic Properties
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Distribution | Rapidly eliminated from the blood, transferred to the bone marrow, and deposited in the liver and spleen. |
| Maximum Serum Iron Levels | 37 μg/mL up to 333 μg/mL obtained after 15 minutes to 1.21 hours respectively. |
| Terminal Half-Life | 7 to 12 hours. |
| Mean Residence Time | 11 to 18 hours. |
| Renal Elimination | Negligible. |
How Should I Use Boferin Injection Correctly?
Boferin Injection must be administered by a healthcare professional. Do not self-administer this medication.
Dosage and Administration
Boferin follows a stepwise approach for dosing:
Step 1: Determination of Iron Need
The individual iron need for repletion using Boferin is determined based on the patient’s body weight and haemoglobin (Hb) level:
Table 1: Determination of Iron Need
| Hb Level | Patient Body Weight <35 kg | Patient Body Weight 35 kg to <70 kg | Patient Body Weight 70 kg and above |
|---|---|---|---|
| <10 g/dL (<6.2 mmol/L) | 500 mg | 1,500 mg | 2,000 mg |
| 10 to <14 g/dL (6.2 to <8.7 mmol/L) | 500 mg | 1,000 mg | 1,500 mg |
| >14 g/dL (>8.7 mmol/L) | 500 mg | 500 mg | 500 mg |
Step 2: Calculation and Administration
Based on the iron need determined above, the appropriate dose(s) of Boferin should be administered:
| Parameter | IV Injection | IV Infusion |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Single Dose | 15 mg iron/kg body weight (not exceeding 1,000 mg iron) | 20 mg iron/kg body weight (not exceeding 1,000 mg iron) |
| Maximum Recommended Cumulative Dose | 1,000 mg of iron per week | 1,000 mg of iron per week |
| Hemodialysis Patients | A single maximum daily dose of 200 mg iron should not be exceeded | A single maximum daily dose of 200 mg iron should not be exceeded |
Step 3: Post-Iron Repletion Assessments
The Hb level should be re-assessed no earlier than 4 weeks post final Boferin administration.
Method of Administration
Boferin must only be administered by the intravenous route:
Injection: Using undiluted solution. Maximum single dose: 15 mg iron/kg body weight (not exceeding 1,000 mg iron).
Infusion: Must be diluted in sterile 0.9% sodium chloride solution. Maximum single dose: 20 mg iron/kg body weight (not exceeding 1,000 mg iron).
During Hemodialysis: Undiluted directly into the venous limb of the dialyser.
Important Considerations
Prescription Only: This medication is available only with a prescription from a qualified healthcare professional.
Healthcare Professional Administration: Must be administered by a healthcare professional.
Post-Administration Monitoring: The patient should be observed for adverse effects for at least 30 minutes following each Boferin administration.
Resuscitation Facilities: Boferin should only be administered when staff trained to evaluate and manage anaphylactic reactions is immediately available, in an environment where full resuscitation facilities can be assured.
Children: Not recommended in children under 14 years.
What Precautions Should I Be Aware of Before Taking This Medication?
While generally safe and well-tolerated, specific conditions and interactions require awareness and caution.
Key Warnings and Contraindications
Hypersensitivity Reactions: Monitor carefully for signs and symptoms of hypersensitivity reactions during and following each administration of Boferin. Hypersensitivity reactions have also been reported after previously uneventful doses of parenteral iron complexes.
Anaphylaxis Risk: Boferin should only be administered when staff trained to evaluate and manage anaphylactic reactions is immediately available. Facilities for cardio-respiratory resuscitation should be available.
Iron Overload: Do not use if there is evidence of iron overload or disturbances in the utilisation of iron.
Anemia Not Due to Iron Deficiency: Do not use if anemia is not attributed to iron deficiency.
Infection: Parenteral iron must be used with caution in case of acute or chronic infection. Treatment should be stopped in patients with ongoing bacteraemia.
Hepatic or Renal Impairment: In patients with liver dysfunction, parenteral iron should only be administered after careful benefit/risk assessment. No safety data on haemodialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease patients receiving single doses of more than 200 mg iron are available.
Hypophosphataemia: Symptomatic hypophosphataemia leading to osteomalacia and fractures requiring clinical intervention has been reported. Serum phosphate should be monitored in patients who receive multiple administrations at higher doses or long-term treatment.
Extravasation: Caution should be exercised to avoid paravenous leakage when administering Boferin. Paravenous leakage may lead to irritation of the skin and potentially long lasting brown discolouration.
Drug Interactions
| Interaction | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Oral Iron | The absorption of oral iron is reduced when administered concomitantly with parenteral iron preparations. Oral iron therapy should not be started for at least 5 days after the last administration of Boferin. |
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Severe Allergic Reaction: Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face/lips/tongue/throat, severe dizziness, or extensive rash.
Signs of Anaphylaxis: Sudden onset of symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Severe Injection Site Reactions: Persistent pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site.
Are There Any Potential Side Effects of Boferin Injection?
As with all medications, Boferin Injection may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.
Side Effects by Frequency
| Frequency | Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Common | Hypophosphataemia, headache, dizziness, flushing, hypertension, nausea, injection/infusion site reactions. |
| Uncommon | Hypersensitivity, paraesthesia, dysgeusia, tachycardia, hypotension, dyspnoea, vomiting, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhoea, pruritus, urticaria, erythema, rash, myalgia, back pain, arthralgia, pain in extremity, muscle spasms, pyrexia, fatigue, chest pain, oedema peripheral, chills. |
| Rare | Anaphylactoid/anaphylactic reactions, anxiety, phlebitis, syncope, presyncope, bronchospasm, flatulence, angioedema, pallor, distant skin discolouration, malaise, influenza-like illness (onset may vary from a few hours to several days). |
| Not Known | Loss of consciousness, Kounis syndrome, face oedema, hypophosphataemic osteomalacia. |
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Severe Allergic Reaction: Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face/lips/tongue/throat, severe dizziness, or extensive rash.
Signs of Anaphylaxis: Sudden onset of symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Symptoms of Hypophosphataemia: Worsening fatigue with myalgias or bone pain.
Severe Injection Site Reactions: Persistent pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site.
How Should I Store This Medication?
Proper storage is essential for maintaining the stability, efficacy, and safety of Boferin Injection.
Optimal Storage Conditions
Temperature Control: Store at room temperature, away from direct light and heat.
Keep Out of Reach: Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.
Check Solution: Do not use the medication if the solution is discolored or contains particles.
Single-Use Only: Each vial is for single use only. Discard any unused portion.
Who Manufactures Boferin Injection?
Boferin Injection is manufactured by Bosch Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd. , a reputable Pakistani pharmaceutical company. Bosch Pharmaceuticals is known for producing high-quality medications for various medical conditions, with state-of-the-art facilities including Pakistan’s largest cGMP compliant penicillin plant.
Commitment to Quality and Safety
DRAP Approval: Registered with the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP).
cGMP Compliance: Manufactured in state-of-the-art cGMP compliant facilities.
Quality Assurance: Each batch undergoes rigorous quality testing to ensure purity, potency, and consistency.
Patient Safety: A commitment to providing safe, effective, and high-quality medications.
Nationwide Presence: With over 200 distributors and coverage across approximately 1,000,000 outlets.
How Does Ferric Carboxymaltose Compare to Other Iron Therapies?
Understanding the distinct advantages of Ferric Carboxymaltose (Boferin) helps in making an informed treatment decision.
Ferric Carboxymaltose vs. Iron Sucrose
| Feature | Ferric Carboxymaltose (Boferin) | Iron Sucrose |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Ferric Carboxymaltose | Iron Sucrose |
| Dosing | Up to 1,000 mg per session | Typically 200-300 mg per session |
| Convenience | Fewer hospital visits required (1-2 sessions) | More frequent visits needed (multiple sessions) |
| Maximum Single Dose (IV Injection) | 15 mg/kg (up to 1,000 mg) | Typically 200 mg |
| Maximum Single Dose (IV Infusion) | 20 mg/kg (up to 1,000 mg) | Typically 200-300 mg |
| Iron Utilisation | 91% to 99% in iron deficiency subjects | Variable |
| Best For | Patients requiring rapid correction with fewer visits | Patients who prefer fractionated dosing |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Boferin Injection used for?
Boferin Injection is used for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia in adult patients who have intolerance to oral iron, have had unsatisfactory response to oral iron, or when there is a clinical need to deliver iron rapidly.
2. How much does Boferin Injection cost in Pakistan?
The price of Boferin Injection 500mg/10ml in Pakistan ranges from Rs. 2,511 to Rs. 3,400 per vial. Prices may vary depending on the pharmacy and location.
3. How is Boferin Injection administered?
Boferin Injection is administered intravenously by a healthcare professional, either as an undiluted slow intravenous injection or by infusion.
4. Is Boferin Injection safe during pregnancy?
Studies have shown Boferin to be safe for pregnant Pakistani women and effective in raising hemoglobin levels. However, inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Use only if clearly needed and prescribed by your doctor.
5. Can I take oral iron supplements with Boferin?
No. Oral iron therapy should not be started for at least 5 days after the last injection, as it may reduce the absorption of oral iron.
6. What are the common side effects?
Common side effects include hypophosphataemia, headache, dizziness, flushing, hypertension, nausea, and injection/infusion site reactions.
7. Do I need a prescription for Boferin Injection?
Yes. Boferin Injection is a prescription medication and is available only with a prescription from a qualified healthcare professional.
8. Who manufactures Boferin Injection?
Boferin Injection is manufactured by Bosch Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd. in Pakistan.
9. How should I store Boferin Injection?
Store at room temperature, away from direct light and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
10. What should I do if I experience side effects?
If you experience mild side effects, inform your doctor at your next appointment. If you experience severe allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, or signs of anaphylaxis, seek immediate medical attention.
